Information Provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook
Career Profile:
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists See More Careers
Job opportunities generally should be good, but competition is expected for jobs and clients at higher paying salons; opportunities will be best for those licensed to provide a broad range of services. A State license is required for barbers, cosmetologists, and most other personal appearance workers, with the exception of shampooers; qualifications vary by State.
Career Salary:
On average, Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists earn $ 21,320 per year.
Number of People in Profession:
344,900Job Outlook:
Job Opportunities for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists are expected to:
Increase as fast as the average.
Recommended Education Level:
- Master's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Associate Degree
- Professional Certificate
Nature of the Job
Barbers and cosmetologists focus on providing hair care services to enhance the appearance of consumers. Other personal appearance workers, such as manicurists and pedicurists, shampooers, theatrical and performance makeup artists, and skin care specialists provide specialized beauty services that help clients look and feel their best.
Training
A high school diploma or GED is required for some personal appearance workers in some States. In addition, most States require that barbers and cosmetologists complete a program in a State-licensed barber or cosmetology school. Programs in hairstyling, skin care, and other personal appearance services can be found in both high schools and in public or private postsecondary vocational schools.
Employment Opportunities
Barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers held about 825,000 jobs in 2006. Of these, barbers and cosmetologists held 677,000 jobs, manicurists and pedicurists 78,000, skin care specialists 38,000, and shampooers 29,000. Theatrical and performance makeup artists held 2,100 jobs.
Additional Resources:
- Beauty Schools Directory
- National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences
- National Association of Barber Boards of America
- National Cosmetology Association